Sidearms or Super Raiden? which one should i buy

[rolins]

What do you guys think about Sidearms Special and Super Raiden?

I'm looking for a tough shmups to play. I've already beaten Super Star Soldier, Gunhed, and Nexzr. I've looked at some reviews online and these two games were considered very difficult. Which one should I buy?

[GUTS]

Man if you want a challenge, get Sidearms.  That's probably the toughest shooter I've ever played!

[rolins]

I guess I'll get Sidearms, but the hardest shmups I've played is Silver Surfer for the NES. That game is completely unbalanced and I've never been able to pass the first level.

By the way, is there any difference between the hucard and CD version of Sidearms?

[OldRover]

I've never played Super Raiden but I can tell you from experience that yes, Sidearms is an exceptionally difficult shooter. The only PCE shooter I can think of that can top mighty Sidearms in terms of difficulty is Sinistron...and its Japanese counterpart, Violent Soldier, is even harder. The cool thing about Sidearms is that it's pretty arcade-faithful, minus some graphics and the two-player option.

I don't know about the difference between the card and cd versions, but I'd imagine that the music is going to be the most obvious difference.

[esteban]

What do you guys think about Sidearms Special and Super Raiden?

I'm looking for a tough shmups to play. I've already beaten Super Star Soldier, Gunhed, and Nexzr. I've looked at some reviews online and these two games were considered very difficult. Which one should I buy?

Sidearms: if you dug Section Z (NES) or Forgotten Worlds... you'll like sidearms. All of these games have the neat (unusual) feature where you shoot forward and backwards.

I would get Sidearms Special (CD) -- you get the regular HuCard version (with Redbook Audio soundtrack) PLUS you get a special remixed bonus version of the game (some folks don't like the re-arranged mode, but I appreciate the variety--though the original game seems more polished).

Don't pay too much for Sidearms Special because historically it's been one of the cheaper titles (i.e. like Avenger).  If you can't find the CD cheap, I'm sure you could pick up the HuCard cheap. Then, if you really dig the game, you could always upgrade to the CD later.

Raiden -- if you've never played this game, well, it's a classic. It didn't break any molds -- it just took a popular shooter formula and executed it very nicely. If you've played a lot of vertical shooters, then Raiden will be nice, but straightforward and perhaps not as exciting.  

Sidearms, in my opinion, has more interesting gameplay... but the power-up system (think 1942) can be frustrating. This power-up system makes the game more challenging and hectic... in Raiden, the power-up system is straight out of tiger-heli, in other words, it's simple and doesn't require much thought.

Super Raiden -- in addition to Redbook Audio, I was under the impression that it added an extra stage or two? I've played the heck out of the HuCard, but I've yet to get into the CD.

[rolins]

Well, I decided to just buy both games since I found them cheap. Bought new/sealed copy of Super Raiden and Sidearms (hucard) at japangamestock. Quite cheap, $31 for Sidearms and $36 for Super Raiden. The total cost was not to high because I used that 1000 yen discount coupon I found on in this forum.

I just hope japangamestock sends the correct games, and they had better be sealed. I'm worried because japangamestock had two prices for Super Raiden. A used copy was $46 and a new/sealed copy was $36. Does not make sense why a brandnew copy should cost less than the used copy. I figure they made a typo, and thought I should take advantage of the low cost while I can.

[rolins]

Recieved Sidearms and Super Raiden in the mail yesterday. Both are sealed and brandnew. I have to say Sidearms is really tough, not a lot of room to dodge the bullets and some of the enemys are cheap. On the other hand, bosses are easy. Manage to get to the third level so far. Super Raiden, love it more than Sidearms, got to the fifth level. Reminds me a lot when I played Nexzr, memorization and skill is the only to overcome obstacles.

I all most forgot, Super Raiden [brandnew/sealed] costs $36.45 and a used copy is $45.79 at http://japangamestock.com. They really made a typo on their website, so if anyone wants a brandnew Super Raiden get them now before they switch the prices.

http://www.japangamestock.com/buy_video_games.php?products_id=7976

[esteban]

Recieved Sidearms and Super Raiden in the mail yesterday. Both are sealed and brandnew. I have to say Sidearms is really tough, not a lot of room to dodge the bullets and some of the enemys are cheap. On the other hand, bosses are easy. Manage to get to the third level so far. Super Raiden, love it more than Sidearms, got to the fifth level. Reminds me a lot when I played Nexzr, memorization and skill is the only to overcome obstacles.

I all most forgot, Super Raiden [brandnew/sealed] costs $36.45 and a used copy is $45.79 at http://japangamestock.com. They really made a typo on their website, so if anyone wants a brandnew Super Raiden get them now before they switch the prices.

http://www.japangamestock.com/buy_video_games.php?products_id=7976

It's good to hear that you got the new SR for $36! Glad you like Super Raiden, tell me if you can beat the last boss (I haven't beaten it yet). I don't use cheats, so it's taking me quite some time. I think there might be an extra stage on Super Raiden (vs. the HuCard), but I have never verified this.

Don't give up on Sidearms -- it really does grow on you. Coming up with a strategy for powering-up is the only big hurdle. Once you overcome that, you'll be able to focus on twitch-shooting 100% (OK, more like 90%, sinced the power-up system is cumbersome).

[Keranu]

Haha, nice screw up on Japan Game Stock's part. I think I found something similar like that on Japan Game Stock before as well actually.

[rolins]

I know I will be able to beat Super Raiden. It's hard, but doable after some practice.

I have more difficulty with Sidearms, mainly because it has a strange power up system. After powering up I've noticed that my robot (or main character) moves way to fast and I end up running into bullets while trying to dodge them. Is there a way to lower my speed?

[OldRover]

Recieved Sidearms and Super Raiden in the mail yesterday. Both are sealed and brandnew. I have to say Sidearms is really tough, not a lot of room to dodge the bullets and some of the enemys are cheap. On the other hand, bosses are easy. Manage to get to the third level so far.

If it's the same base game...you'll want to use the Shotgun weapon a lot as it can wipe out enemy bullets. I have a strategy for conquering Sidearms that involves using ths Shotgun for at least 90% of the game, since it has the ability to take out shots. I don't know if they removed that ability for the CD version though (the arcade version didn't have the feature...it was just another weapon, nothing special). But if it's still in the CD version...stick to the shotgun and you'll get much further. The first boss is freakin easy peasy...the second isn't too much of a challenge either (shotgun works very well here). I won't give away the rest but if the CD version of functionally identical to the cart version and you need some strategies for beating the game, let me know...I can finish the entire game without losing a single life just by knowing what weapons to use where and when.

[rolins]

If it's the same base game...you'll want to use the Shotgun weapon a lot as it can wipe out enemy bullets. I have a strategy for conquering Sidearms that involves using ths Shotgun for at least 90% of the game, since it has the ability to take out shots.

I have the hucard version, and never played the CD version. Anyway, the shotgun is definitely powerful, it cancels out most enemy bullets. Found to be very useful in the second stage, taking out those buggers on the ground that shoots out 3 bullets. Probably the hardest enemy for me to kill are those red worms that take several shots before going down.

I won't give away the rest but if the CD version of functionally identical to the cart version and you need some strategies for beating the game, let me know...I can finish the entire game without losing a single life just by knowing what weapons to use where and when.

You've actually beaten this game on the pc-engine?

Well, I don't want to spoil the fun trying to use insider tips. I'll try to find my own method to beat this game. But I wouldn't mind some help understanding the power-up system.

[CrackTiger]

Sidearms is very playable and reasonable throughout, except the bosses.

From level 3 onward they're ridiculous hard to dodge. I usually used a Turbo Stick with slow mo to dodge the unblockable shots.

The CD version also has an entire new(cuter) version of the game, so go for the cd or both.

[Keranu]

The CD version also has an entire new(cuter) version of the game, so go for the cd or both.

I didn't know about any new cuter version of the game! Any screenshots for this?

[CrackTiger]

The CD version also has an entire new(cuter) version of the game, so go for the cd or both.

I didn't know about any new cuter version of the game! Any screenshots for this?

Its basically 2 seperate games on the same disc.

The alternate version is subtitled Before Christ.

The power-up system is more like other shooters. Instead of shooting a POW, it changes on its own and you can pick between a wavy spread(it drags as you move), a straight shot(like the balls in the original) or a bouncing flame thrower(boomerangy).

Also, you can charge your shot like in R-Type. That big shot is like the cannon in the original.

It has the same cd music and same levels, but with completely redone graphics.

/sa1.jpg
/sa2.jpg
/sa3.jpg
/sa4.jpg

And these screen shots were taken from my RX using S-Video, not from an emulator. So everyone go get yours modded.

[Keranu]

Cool, thanks for the info. I knew of the "Before Christ" version, but I just didn't know what was different about it. Sounds fun!

[rolins]

I finally beat Sidearms just a few minutes ago. It's not difficult as other gamers had said it would be. I was hoping the last boss would change into several forms like in Super Star Soldier, but didn't happen in Sidearms. The last boss was a just large worm that spreads blue bullets in all directions, but they're slow and easy to dodge.  The ending...well not worth describing, but the gameplay is great. Being able to switch your attack from behind or in front of you, and combine that with a shit load of enemies attacking you in every direction just keeps the game alive. The shotgun is mandatory against all normal enemies in every level, but switching to the Bit, Auto, or 3-shot is best against most bosses.

Now I'm going back to play Super Raiden.

[rolins]

I did it, I finally beat Super Raiden (scd) two days ago. I bought this game back in sept 2005 and haven't been able stop playing it. I loved this game so much that I bought the japanese hucard back in nov 2005, so I can play it on my GT while at work. This game is hard, and more difficult than Sidearms and Nexzr put together. I haven't had this feeling since I beat Super Star Soldier which I think comes in second to Super Raiden in difficulty. Just last night I played thru the entire game except this time on the japanese hucard. I was under the impression after reading several reviews that both the scd and hucard version are identical  (minus the music), but there are some major differences.

1.) The most noticable difference is the music and sfx. The music in the SCD is in redbook audio and sound alot better than on the hucard.

2.)The major difference is the SCD version has two extra stages for a total of 10 stages. The hucard only has only 8 stages. From stage 1 to 8 they are identical on both version.

3.)Another difference is the ending. After beating the stage 10 boss, in the SCD version, you get to see a small animation of Raiden flying off into space while leaving behind some boss wreakage. Then the credits roll and then your're dumped back to stage 1.
When you beat the stage 8 boss in the hucard version, you're told "mission completed" and you're awared a million points. You're then immediatley dumped at stage 1. There is no credits or even a picture ever shown at the end. Lame.

As I said earlier Super Raiden is tough, and if you manage to beat stage 8 wait until you get to stage 10 (stage 9 isn't as tough as stage 10 trust me). Stage 10 is the longest and hardest level in Super Raiden. Enemies are aggresive and a barrage of bullets are constantly coming towards you. I have more difficulty going thru all the enemies than fighting the last boss. It is important to max out on red and green powerups before entering this stage, and if you die even once forget about continuing. Reset your duo and start over because it will be impossible to recover. With out your weapons at maximum you will not survive the full onslaught of an entire army.

Super Raiden is solid shooter that will keep you occupied for months. To survive this game keep your thumbs in good condition because you'll be constantly moving that d-pad to dodge those bullets in narrow spaces. And dodging bullets is part of the whole fun of this game.

[esteban]

I did it, I finally beat Super Raiden (scd) two days ago. I bought this game back in sept 2005 and haven't been able stop playing it. I loved this game so much that I bought the japanese hucard back in nov 2005, so I can play it on my GT while at work.

Damn . The Red Book soundtrack is really nice -- but it doesn't haved the urgency of the chip tunes on the HuCard. So, both soundtracks rule, IMO.

I've been trying to beat the HuCard version for years. I can get to stage 8 consistently, but I choke at certain parts. I don't have a strategy for the "last" boss because I don't get that far too often. Maybe, with the prospect of seeing a ninth and tenth stage, I'll try again.

Don't tell me how to beat the stage 8 boss (I like to figure stuff out), but please tell me what stage 9 and 10 are like!

Since we're on the subject: I've been playing Raiden 2 at the laundromat a lot recently.

[rolins]

Don't tell me how to beat the stage 8 boss (I like to figure stuff out), but please tell me what stage 9 and 10 are like!

Since we're on the subject: I've been playing Raiden 2 at the laundromat a lot recently.

Sure I'll describe what you'll encounter and I'll leave out any boss strategies too.

Stage 9 starts out in deep black space with bright-blue black holes in the background, but most of the battle is on a space station. The stage introduces two new annoying enemies that will irritate you in Stage 10: the blue flying robots and the brown walking robots. The blue robots come in packs and love to scare you by almost running into you. Their attack style is to shoot you up close and run away (cowards). The brown robots also attack in numbers but only appear midway in stage 9. They'll first appear coming out of a hanger in groups and will each shoot a bullet. What's tough about them is they appear at a moment when you're very close to them, and they're the quickest shooters. Even if you kill them first, they'll still manage to take shot at you, and you'll have to quickly get out you're their way.

Right after you encounter the brown robots you'll be in corridor with water below, and purple boats racing around. I have no idea why there is a pool of water or even boats in space, but don't underestimate the purple boats. Three boats will appear going in opposite directions shooting at the same time to intercept you, and then three more from the top of the screen. These bastards have plenty of hit-points and they shoot three bullets in your directions.

After passing the purple boats you'll reach the end and meet the boss. There are two bosses here. Both have a square-frame with four legs coming out of them, and they shoot all over the place. These guys had me pushed to corners dodging all their bullets and always getting killed, but they have a weakness. I won't spoil it for you but when found out its weakness I was laughing my guts out when I destroyed it in 19 seconds, no bombs needed.

Stage 10 is the toughest. Still set in space on another space station. The blue and brown robots in the previous stage are here and you will be seeing a lot of them. Also a brand new annoying enemy appears here too and I call them streamers (like firecrackers). They look like gliders and arrive in pairs of three, and spin around shooting bullets. Fighting one of them is enough, but three makes it difficult to get in close to kill them. Not to mention you're still dodging and killing those pesky blue and brown robots at the same time.

The hardest part in this stage is an area before you meet the boss. You'll know when you see two rows of blocks. The block have the colors blue/green on the outside and solid red on the inside. When you make it here, it's the checkpoint so if you die at the final boss you're spawned back here where those blocks are. This is not a good thing because this area is the worst place to be re-spawned. This area has railroad tracks on both sides of the screen, and they going up and down. The right side railroad has three tanks moving up along those tracks constantly attacking you pushing you to left side. These tanks are difficult to kill, and throwing a bomb at them doesn't always kill them. As you're being pushed to the left side, there is also a one large tank on the left railroad to nail you. That's not all because you still have to deal with the constant barrage of streamers and blue robots.

If you made past everything else you see the final boss. It's a large and almost circular ship with two crab-like appendages. It has six smaller guns and its attack pattern is similar to Stage 7 boss. This thing has the most hit-points in the game and when you think you've destroyed it, this boss will try stab you in back with a cheap shot. I've only been able to beat this boss once.

Boss Speed Kills
Stage 1 - 15 sec (no bombs used)
Stage 6 - 10 sec
Stage 8 - 30 sec
Stage 9 - 19 sec (no bombs used)

[esteban]

Sure I'll describe what you'll encounter and I'll leave out any boss strategies too.

Rock on! It was a blast to read that (nice attention to detail ).